7,000 illegal meat shops face closure in state

Around 7,000 illegal meat shops across the state are set to face closure following a statewide crackdown ordered by Urban Local Bodies Minister Vipul Goel.

The move follows a recent survey by the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Department, which found widespread violations, particularly in Gurugram, Nuh and Faridabad. In Gurugram, of nearly 3,000 meat shops, only about 150 were found to have valid licences. In Faridabad, earlier reports indicated that nearly 99% of such establishments were operating without licences.

Taking serious note, the minister has directed all municipal corporations, councils and committees to conduct intensive inspection drives and shut down unlicensed units. Authorities have also been asked to submit an action taken report within seven days.

Goel said the government had received multiple complaints about meat shops operating without approvals and in proximity to religious places and public areas, raising hygiene concerns and causing inconvenience to residents. “Such violations will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said.

Citing the Haryana Municipal (Regulation of Meat Sale) Byelaws, 1976, the minister reiterated that meat sale in municipal areas requires a valid licence and must be conducted only from approved premises meeting prescribed norms.

In May 2017, over 2,000 unlicensed meat shops were identified, of which 666 were shut, while only 220 had valid licences.

Officials have now been instructed to ensure that no meat shops operate near religious sites, educational institutions or other sensitive public locations, and that sanitation standards are strictly followed.

The minister also warned of strict administrative action against officials for any delay or negligence in enforcing the orders.

The drive is expected to be among the largest against illegal meat trade in Haryana, particularly impacting urban centres where violations are reported to be widespread.